A Faculty Mentoring Experience

Abstract

Researchers have highlighted the benefits of using virtual worlds such as Second Life in education, but they have also forewarned educators of potential drawbacks. Understanding how virtual worlds work, including their capabilities and limitations, empowers educators to make better decisions regarding their relevance to learning and teaching. This study describes a technology mentoring experience aimed at teaching two faculty members to use Second Life. This experience allowed the mentees to engage in a collaborative effort to understand how they can use this virtual environment in teacher education and language learning. This article discusses the perspectives of both mentor and mentees and shares the lessons learned. Finally, the authors offer implications for teacher educators.